MCMXC A.D.

Enigma

Product Details

• Audio CD (June 29, 1992)
• Original Release Date: 1990
• Number of Discs: 1
• Label: Virgin Records Us
• ASIN: B000002URV
• Also Available in: Audio CD  |  Audio Cassette  |  MP3 Download
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (152 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #3,386 in Music (See Bestsellers in Music)

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Editorial Reviews

Amazon.com

So much unnecessary fuss was made over Enigma's juxtaposition of the sexual and sacred. After all, Prince had been doing it for years, and his take on it was far more interesting--and a lot more daring. But Enigma's MCMXC A.D. did manage to work a lot of people into a lather, both on the dance floor and behind the pulpit. Their inclusion of chanting monks in "Sadeness," over wooshy ambient noises and a slower hip-hop-appropriated beat was a sensation. "Callas Went Away" promised more than it could deliver, although "Mea Culpa" stands as one of the few shining moments on the CD. The idea of mixing new age aural wallpaper with beats that you can do a slow grind to is actually rather intriguing. Spicing it up with controversial religious chants isn't a bad idea either. But there's got to be something personal to it. After the initial novelty wears off, there's nothing to MCMXC A.D. other than bland, cold, impersonal repetition. Now, that might be what most people are used to, but what's so sexy about it? --Steve Gdula

Product Description

Reissue of Enigma's double platinum & top 10 debut from 1990 with a six track bonus CD shrinkwrapped on top of the CD album and featuring three mixes apiece of 'Sadeness - Part I' (Meditation Mix, Extended Trance Mix and Violent US Remix) and 'Mea Culpa - --This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

49 of 50 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars ENIGMATIZED, April 9, 1999

By	Armando M. Mesa (Chandler, AZ) - See all my reviews (TOP 500 REVIEWER)    (REAL NAME)

This is by far the best Enigma album ( the other two left something to be desired- can't quite put my finger on it, though)! Yes, it does have that late 80's early 90's Soul II Soul sound. However, where the group Soul II Soul mixed in Jamaican, Reggae, club house rhythms Enigma was able to blend in European and Gregorian chant sounds with great finesse and seamless skill. MCMXCa.D. will stand the test of time whether it be on a global or cult status,in a dance club or at home. The limited edition with the remixes is EXCELLENT ! The maxi-singles are very interesting as well. Who would have thought that a group like Enigma could combine New-Age, dance, ambient, global and Gregorian chants to produce something very familiar, yet unique in its own right. Twenty years ago such a concept would have been laughed at by the masses (people, not the church service). To the world it would have been like crossing country music with disco music and Middle-Eastern religious incantations (Hmmm...an interesting concept). After becoming interested and fascinated by the group's musical offerings I found out about the individual artists that make up Enigma: Michael Cretu and his wife Sandra. They, too, have had previous hits in Europe back in the 80's. This led me to collect their import albums. The sound of their albums range anywhere from pop-rock, dance, r&b to pre-Enigma styles . I recommend some of these solo efforts (under the names Cretu, Cretu and Thiers, Sandra) It will give listeners a chance to hear how some of these earlier projects evolved into Enigma. Enigma MCMXC a.D. is a definite keeper for anyone's avid or diverse music collection. Put aside any misconceptions or reservations you may have due to its religious and sexual overtones and accept it for what it is; An artistic concept excellently carried out !

Forever Enigmatized

56 of 59 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Judged an Album by it's Cover, July 20, 2004

By	Graboidz (Westminster, Maryland) - See all my reviews (TOP 1000 REVIEWER)

I picked up this CD way back when it was first released because I liked the CD cover. I was hoping I stumbled across some cool new goth metal like "King Diamond" or maybe another "Alice Cooper". I popped in the CD and the first thing I hear is "The Voice of Enigma". I knew right away that this was going to be different than anything else I was currently listening to. There was no screaming guitar, or blistering drum and bass combos. This was simply a beautiful experience. I was swept away on the audial experience of language, song, music and sound effects that make up "Enigma". By now you have most likely heard "Sadness" or one of Enigma's other songs on a compilation CD like "Pure Moods". But, don't be satisfied with the single song, pick up the album. Enjoy the Enigma experience from start to finish. This CD is never far from my car stereo, and when I have a particularly bad day, "Enigma" is one of the first things I turn to. I can't explain it but, this music makes you feel better after listening, more at peace I guess. I know that sounds corny, but give it a try. "Enigma" is the best mistake I ever made.

65 of 70 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A brilliant, emotional, sensual piece of art, April 8, 2000

By	J. Derek Reardon (KC, MO, USA) - See all my reviews

Enigma is probably best known as the band that introduced Gregorian chants to dance music (though, in actuality, many bands had been doing this for several years in Europe). I must admit, that is one of the key things I remembered about this release. But after listening again to MCMXC a.D., I remember much more. For those people who understand and appreciate the power of music to enhance mood, this release is an experience in sensuality. Layered with religious symbolism, lush female vocals, spoken word (often in French), sounds from nature, and sensual beats, Enigma takes the listener (or listeners, as this release is also enjoyable with a companion) on a journey of self actualization, inner peace, and outward passion.

The release begins with "Voice of Enigma", a soothing intro to the album. Not really a song, this short piece places the listener in a relaxed state of mind which helps one best enjoy the remaining 40+ minutes.

The next song, "Principles of Lust," allows one to slip into deep relaxation and sensual exploration. Clocking in at over 11:30, this is actually a combination of three songs that flow together. a. "Sadeness" is Enigma's classic and first big hit. It is very sensual and relaxing, however at the same time it is stimulating and encourages one to be tactile. b. "Find Love" starts off as a sensual, atmospheric piece that floats all around the listener. Then it moves to a funky beat that is very assertive and more active. Also known as "The Principles of Lust." c. "Sadeness (Reprise)" returns the listener to the feelings in "Sadeness." However, the additional piano is very deep and stimulates one to be reflective.

"Callas Went Away" makes me think of young lovers who have stolen away from the village into the woods at dusk for a lovers' tryst.

"Mea Culpa" grabs one's attention and provides a sense of urgent desperation. The beats, the chant, the marching footsteps, and the rain make one feel like one is trying to escape from someone or something. This is a very powerful song.

"The Voice & the Snake" is discordant and disturbing, shaking one violently from a relaxed state. Fortunately, it is only a little over a minute and a half, ending the discomfort quickly.

"Knocking on Forbidden Doors" gives one a sense of need for control and for asserting oneself, strongly yet with a gentle, loving touch.

"Back to the Rivers of Belief," which concludes the release, has three parts. a. "Way to Eternity" slows one back down, allowing one to become calm and reflective once again. b. "Hallelujah" reintroduces the rhythm, allowing one to slowly again explore one's inner (or outer) senusuality. The tinkling bells are like a soft rain falling to the ground, or perhaps on oneself. c. "The Rivers of Belief" is a sensual, relaxing conclusion to the album. Whether shared with oneself or with another, this song helps reaffirm the love and passion one feels for oneself or one's partner.

This is an excellent release, especially for those who understand and enjoy the power of music to enhance the mood, whether one is alone or with that special someone. A sensual delight, MCMXC a.D. deserves a strong 5 star recommendation.